BETHESDA, Md. — The drug-discovery division of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is teaming up with drug maker Pfizer to find new treatments for patients with the most common genetic mutation of the disease.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Therapeutics announced a $58 million partnership with Pfizer to discover new drugs for CF patients whose disease has the Delta F508 mutation, present in nearly 90% of patients, in which a defective protein called CFTR does not fold correctly and is unable to reach the cell surface so it can maintain proper flow of salt and fluids into the airways. Because of this, thick secretions form in the airways, leading to serious lung infections and damage.

"We are excited to expand our efforts with Pfizer to accelerate the development of more therapies that treat the root cause of CF and benefit the greatest number of people with the disease," CF Foundation president and CEO Robert Beall said. "Pfizer brings impressive technical and scientific expertise, along with its commitment to improving the lives of people with cystic fibrosis."